What Happens When You Get a DWI in Louisiana? 2025

Getting arrested can shake a person to the core, especially if it’s their first time. If you’re wondering what happens when you get a DWI in Louisiana, you should engage an experienced attorney. It’s important to find straight answers instead of legal jargon. Working with a DWI attorney can help you determine what steps come next for you.

Arrest and Initial Stop

A DWI stop often starts with a minor traffic issue. Once the officer pulls the vehicle over, they start looking for signs of intoxication. This can include the smell of alcohol or visual cues. The officer might watch how the person responds to questioning.

If the officer sees enough indicators, they may ask the driver to step out. Then come field sobriety tests. These check coordination and reaction time. The officer will record these results as part of their report.

If the tests suggest impairment, the officer may request a chemical test, such as a breathalyzer. If the BAC is over the legal limit or the driver fails the test, the officer can make an arrest.

Long-Term Consequences of DWI Conviction in Louisiana

A DWI conviction leaves a mark that doesn’t disappear quickly. This can last even after fines are paid and jail time is served. Charges can stick in the following ways:

• Insurance rates. Louisiana has some of the highest auto insurance rates in the nation, with New Orleans residents paying as much as $5,738 a year in premiums. A DWI can raise your auto insurance rates by as much as 68%. Some companies might even cancel your policy.
• Criminal record. Louisiana does not remove DWIs quickly. A first offense can be expunged after a certain amount of time with no new arrests in the meantime. Until then, it shows up on background checks.
• Job searching. Some jobs may be harder to get. Employers can see convictions. Jobs that involve driving or require a clean criminal record may no longer be an option. Some licenses can be revoked or restricted.
• Out-of-state travel. Countries like Canada may deny entry to someone with a DWI. The restriction doesn’t always end when probation ends. It may take legal action to remove the block.
• Court costs. The costs of court appearances and mandated programs can stretch over time. Some cases include probation for a long time. During that time, the driver may need to attend classes and follow strict rules.

Each of these penalties adds weight to the charge long after the arrest ends.

Criminal Penalties

Criminal penalties depend on how many prior DWIs a person has. A first offense is usually a misdemeanor. The consequences can still be severe and include a loss of time and fines. A first conviction can lead to up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine.

Many first-time offenders avoid jail through probation or home monitoring. However, a second and third DWI can carry harsher penalties. These include longer jail time and mandatory treatment.

Make Your Next Move a Smart One

From 2022 to 2023, the number of DWIs in Louisiana increased by 16.5%. For those involved, a charge might throw your life off balance. An attorney can help you find the path forward. Schedule a consultation with The DWI Defense Center LLC to speak to someone who can help.